Rep. Jeff Steinborn
STATE News:
Legislation Brings Together Top Water Programs at NMSU and UNM to Study Best Water Conservation Ideas Across the Globe
SANTA FE—In an effort to develop new ideas to better conserve our limited water resources, Rep. Jeff Steinborn, D-Dona Ana, has introduced House Memorial 83 to conduct a significant far reaching study. HM 83 (Assess Best Water Conservation Practices) would bring together the New Mexico State University Water Resources Research Institute (WRRI) and University of New Mexico Utton Transboundary Resources Center (UTRC) to “conduct an in depth analysis in all water use sectors of the state.” The NMSU Water Resources Research Institute and UNM Utton Transboundary Resources Center are considered leaders in water research and legal expertise in New Mexico.
“Given the scarcity of New Mexico’s water resources and our continuing drought, it’s imperative that New Mexico policymakers develop the smartest approach possible to how we use our water,” Steinborn said. “This study will cast a global net to study the best water conservation strategies across all sectors of water use in our society. I urge the legislature to provide the necessary funding to begin this important research immediately.”
Director of the Water Resources Research Institute Sam Fernal said, “This study is needed to bridge the gaps between the research, legal and policy realms. We will work with universities and key stake-holder groups across New Mexico to bring together the diverse expertise and points of view necessary to produce a comprehensive report.”
Interim Director of the Utton Transboundary Resources Center Marilyn C. O’Leary said, “This is an important study. Because of the complexity of our water laws, conservation efforts can raise a myriad of legal issues that need to be considered when analyzing best practices and making recommendations to New Mexico policymakers.”
Given the robust nature of the water conservation study proposed by House Memorial 83, the legislation requires that funding be given this legislative session to these research programs to begin this effort.
Co-sponsors of HM 83 include Rep. Stephanie Garcia Richard, D-Los Alamos, Sandoval, Rio Arriba, Santa Fe, Rep. Emily Kane, D-Bernalillo and Rep. Elizabeth Thomson, D-Bernalillo.)
